Hammertoe is a foot deformity that often develops gradually because of a combination of genetic predisposition, improper footwear, and biomechanical imbalances in the foot. Children and adults with hammertoe in New York, NY, Brooklyn, NY, or Englewood, NJ, may experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty wearing shoes. If you or your child experience persistent toe pain or stiffness or notice a change in toe shape, it’s advisable to consult a podiatrist or foot specialist at FOOTDRx.

Our team can diagnose hammertoes through physical examination and recommend appropriate treatment options. Early intervention can help prevent the worsening of symptoms and improve foot function and mobility.

What Is Hammertoe?

A hammertoe is a foot deformity that typically affects the second, third, or fourth toes, bending at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition can be caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, toe injuries, muscle imbalances, or genetic factors.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you manage hammertoe effectively.

Symptoms of hammertoe include:

• Toe pain and stiffness
• Corns or calluses on the affected toes
• Difficulty moving the toe joint
• Visible deformity

A podiatrist or foot specialist in New York, NY, Brooklyn, NY, or Englewood, NJ, can diagnose whether you have a hammertoe, and they’ll recommend the best treatment.

Treatment options for hammertoe vary depending on the severity of the condition. Conservative measures include wearing orthotic devices, using toe splints or pads to alleviate pressure, and performing regular stretching exercises. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the toe deformity and relieve pain.

You should also wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room and arch support so you don’t aggravate your hammertoe.

Exercises to stretch and strengthen the toe muscles can be beneficial.

Consulting a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, is essential for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. They can provide guidance on appropriate footwear, recommend exercises, and discuss surgical options if needed. Early intervention and proper management can help alleviate discomfort and improve the function of the affected toes.

How FOOTDRx Diagnoses and Treats Hammertoe

FOOTDRx diagnoses hammertoe through physical examination and possibly X-rays. Treatment varies depending on the severity but typically involves footwear changes, orthotics, padding, and exercises to alleviate pain and pressure.

For more severe cases, splinting or surgery might be necessary to realign the toe. The focus is on relieving discomfort, correcting deformity, and restoring normal function to the affected toe.

Contact Your Foot Specialist Today

Are you tired of hurting with every step?

Take the first stride towards pain-free living from a hammertoe in New York, Brooklyn, NY, or Englewood, NJ. Visit FOOTDRx by booking an appointment online or calling (888) 265-0610.